The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has introduced measures designed to shield smaller telecom operators from unfair competition while strengthening the telecommunications industry.
As part of this effort, the Commission has issued a draft Business Rules for Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) and invited operators to submit feedback on the proposal.
The Commission explained that the proposed framework is intended to stop larger Mobile Network Operators (MNO) from using pricing tactics or operational bottlenecks to obstruct smaller operators and virtual network providers in the industry.
In a document reviewed by our Correspondent, the NCC stated that the draft rules would encourage fair competition, protect smaller operators, and improve operational standards across the sector.
Following its stakeholder engagement procedure, the NCC has requested comments from industry stakeholders and other interested parties on the draft regulations by June 29, 2026.
The Commission also disclosed plans for a public consultation forum on July 9, 2026, where stakeholders’ recommendations and observations will be considered and incorporated before the framework is finalised and implemented.
According to the NCC, the proposed regulations are aimed at creating a level playing field for all operators, fostering healthy competition, and accelerating growth in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.
Major elements of the proposed framework include strict onboarding timelines, fair pricing mechanisms, revenue-sharing models, and mandatory compliance obligations for telecom operators.
Under the draft guidelines, host network operators are required to acknowledge MVNO connection requests within 10 days and provide updates on technical readiness within 20 days.
The framework further requires all business and technical agreements between the parties involved to be concluded within 120 days, preventing avoidable delays.
To support fair market participation, the NCC has proposed benchmark pricing structures for data, voice, SMS, and USSD services. The model is expected to stop dominant operators from forcing smaller virtual operators out of the market through anti-competitive pricing strategies.
The proposed rules also introduce a tiered operational structure that clearly defines the roles, responsibilities, and operational limits of different categories of operators.
